Cheesy garlic bread is the ultimate comfort food, featuring crispy golden bread topped with a rich garlic butter spread and gooey, melted cheese. Perfect as a side dish for pasta, soups, or salads, or enjoyed on its own as a delicious snack. This easy-to-make recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside
- Simple ingredients and quick to prepare
- Perfect as a side for pasta, soups, or pizza night
- Can be customized with different cheeses and seasonings
- A guaranteed hit for parties, gatherings, or casual meals
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- French bread or Italian loaf
- Butter, softened
- Garlic, minced
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- Slice the bread: Cut the loaf in half lengthwise and spread the garlic butter evenly over both halves.
- Add the cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the buttered bread. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
- Bake: Place on the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broil (optional): For extra crispiness, broil on high for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Slice and serve: Cut into pieces and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Ranch Garlic Bread: Mix ranch seasoning into the garlic butter for extra flavor.
- Four-Cheese Garlic Bread: Use a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, and Parmesan.
- Spicy Garlic Bread: Add chopped jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes.
- Herb Butter Garlic Bread: Mix in basil, oregano, or rosemary for a fresh twist.
- Vegan Garlic Bread: Use dairy-free butter and cheese alternatives.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
- Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes or until warm. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
FAQs
What’s the best bread for cheesy garlic bread?
French bread, Italian bread, or ciabatta works best for a crispy yet soft texture.
Can I make garlic bread ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the bread with garlic butter and cheese, then refrigerate or freeze before baking.
How do I get extra crispy edges?
Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking for a crispy, golden top.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, but fresh garlic provides the best flavor. Use ½ teaspoon garlic powder per clove.
What cheese melts best for garlic bread?
Mozzarella is great for melting, while Parmesan adds a sharp, salty bite.
Can I make this without butter?
You can use olive oil as a substitute for a slightly different flavor.
How do I prevent soggy garlic bread?
Bake directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet without foil for the best crispiness.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a creamier texture.
Can I add toppings?
Absolutely! Try bacon bits, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions for extra flavor.
How do I make pull-apart garlic bread?
Slice the bread into squares without cutting all the way through, spread the garlic butter, add cheese, and bake.
Conclusion
Cheesy garlic bread is a simple yet irresistible side dish that pairs well with any meal. With its crispy edges, gooey cheese, and bold garlic flavor, it’s the perfect addition to pasta nights, game-day spreads, or casual snacking. Try this recipe today and enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 slices 1x
- Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Cheesy Garlic Bread is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and loaded with melted cheese and savory garlic butter. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1 baguette or Italian bread loaf
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- Slice & Spread: Slice the bread in half lengthwise and spread the garlic butter evenly over both halves.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the buttered bread.
- Bake: Place on the baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broil for Crispiness: For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy warm!
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Swap mozzarella for cheddar or provolone for a different taste.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
Find it online: https://wowrecipesfood.com/cheesy-garlic-bread/
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